Graphene-reinforced concrete
In April 2018, scientists at Exeter University announced they had developed a new, pioneering technique for incorporating graphene into traditional concrete production. The result of such a technique is the production of a stronger and more water-resistant type of concrete which they believe could revolutionise construction.
Graphene is the world’s thinnest material and even though it’s only one-atom thick, it is 200 times stronger than steel and has superior strength, conductivity, stiffness and transparency.
The technique uses nanoengineering technology to introduce the graphene into the concrete mix; suspending atomically thin graphene in water-yielding concrete. The resultant composite material is twice as strong, four times more water resistant, and with a reduced carbon footprint in comparison with other conventional concretes.
The researchers believe that this technique has the potential to be scaled up at relatively low cost to meet modern production requirements and could pave the way for other nanomaterials to be used to enhance the performance of concrete.
The researchers at Exeter University have published a paper ‘Ultrahigh Performance nanoengineered Graphene-Concrete Composites for Multifunctional Applications’ in the journal of Advanced Functional Materials. Ref https://doi.org/10.1002/adfm.201705183
Professor Monica Craciun, co-author, said:
“This new composite material is an absolute game-changer. Not only is it stronger and more durable, but it is also more resistant to water, making it uniquely suitable for construction in areas which require maintenance work and are difficult to be accessed .
“Yet perhaps more importantly, by including graphene we can reduce the amount of cement required to make concrete by around 50% – leading to a significant reduction of 446kg/tonne of the carbon emissions.”
Dimitar Dimov, lead author and also from the University, said:
“This ground-breaking research is important as it can be applied to large-scale manufacturing and construction. The industry has to be modernised by incorporating not only off-site manufacturing, but innovative new materials as well. Finding greener ways to build is a crucial step forward in reducing carbon emissions around the world and so help protect our environment as much as possible. It is the first step, but a crucial step in the right direction to make a more sustainable construction industry for the future.”
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Shading for housing, a design guide
A look back at embedding a new culture of shading.
The Architectural Technology Awards
The AT Awards 2025 are open for entries!
ECA Blueprint for Electrification
The 'mosaic of interconnected challenges' and how to deliver the UK’s Transition to Clean Power.
Grenfell Tower Principal Contractor Award notice
Tower repair and maintenance contractor announced as demolition contractor.
Passivhaus social homes benefit from heat pump service
Sixteen new homes designed and built to achieve Passivhaus constructed in Dumfries & Galloway.
CABE Publishes Results of 2025 Building Control Survey
Concern over lack of understanding of how roles have changed since the introduction of the BSA 2022.
British Architectural Sculpture 1851-1951
A rich heritage of decorative and figurative sculpture. Book review.
A programme to tackle the lack of diversity.
Independent Building Control review panel
Five members of the newly established, Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommended, panel appointed.
Welsh Recharging Electrical Skills Charter progresses
ECA progressing on the ‘asks’ of the Recharging Electrical Skills Charter at the Senedd in Wales.
A brief history from 1890s to 2020s.
CIOB and CORBON combine forces
To elevate professional standards in Nigeria’s construction industry.
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed by ECA
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.